Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Definition

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious infection of the female reproductive organs. This includes the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. PID can cause scar tissue to form in the pelvis and fallopian tubes. This damage may result in
infertility
, a future
tubal pregnancy
, or chronic pelvic pain.

Symptoms

Women with PID do not always have symptoms. However, if symptoms do occur, they may include:

Pain in the lower abdomen

Vaginal discharge with a foul odor

Fatigue

Fever

Nausea or vomiting

Painful intercourse

Painful urination

Vaginal bleeding

Diagnosis

Because symptoms are often subtle or nonexistent, PID can be difficult to diagnose. There are no specific tests for PID.

If PID is suspected, the doctor will ask about your symptoms, as well as your sexual history, partners, and birth control methods. A physical and pelvic exam will be done. The pelvic exam is key to making the diagnosis. Samples from the vagina or cervix may be taken to help diagnose the problem.

Tests may include:

Cultures of the cervix to test for STD organisms

Blood tests to check pregnancy status, and signs of infection

Laparoscopy
—insertion of a thin, lighted telescopic tube through a small incision in the abdomen to look at the reproductive organs

Treatment

The primary treatment for PID is antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe more than one type of antibiotic to treat the problem. Finish the entire dose of each medication, even if your symptoms disappear during treatment.

You may be hospitalized if the diagnosis is uncertain, you do not improve, or your symptoms are severe. In the hospital, antibiotics can be given by IV. In certain situations, surgery may be required to remove infected or damaged tissue.

If you are diagnosed with PID, follow your doctor's
instructions
.

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of getting PID, take these steps:

Use a latex condom each time you have sexual intercourse.

Discuss birth control options with your doctor. Ask which methods may decrease your risk of PID.

Seek immediate treatment for symptoms, such as unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding.

Limit the number of sexual partners.

Have regular screening tests for STDs.

If you are diagnosed with PID or another STD:

Do not have sexual intercourse until after the treatment is complete, symptoms have resolved, and your sexual partner has been treated.

Notify all sexual partners. They will also need to be treated.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.